Tampa International Airport Gets Boost with $1M Grant

The Tampa economy is receiving a shot in the arm from the federal government.

U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor announced on Tuesday that Tampa International Airport is receiving $1.07 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation toward improvements at the Gulf Coast hub.

The congresswoman says the funds will go toward the airport’s master plan that includes a new automated people mover and taxiway reconstruction.

“America’s infrastructure needs a shot in the arm and I am pleased Tampa Bay’s award-winning airport will lead the way,” Castor said in a statement.

This development comes as the airport unveiled 10 newly-installed automatic kiosks.

The new equipment is expected to expedite the time needed for international travelers clearing customs at Tampa by up to 40 percent, the Tampa Bay Business Journal reports.

“It gives us a really great jump on getting passengers through,” a Tampa customs director said to the Business Journal.

The Federal Aviation Administration says Tampa International Airport is the 30th busiest airport in the U.S., with about 17 million travelers passing through its facilities in 2013.